The eagles are replicas of the two marble statues that adorned the gates for more than 50 years. The original statues were displayed inside Samford Hall this summer, away from the elements that have taken their toll over the years.

“They are showing a lot of wear from exposure to the weather,” said Ron Booth, executive director of facilities operations. “By moving them inside, we can better protect them and create displays that allow for viewing up close.”

AUBURN UNIVERSITY – Auburn University officials today unveiled a new design for the Samford Park area at Toomer’s Corner during a Celebrate the Tradition event marking the final rolling of the poisoned Auburn Oaks, which will be removed Tuesday.

An arcing path design, set to be implemented in 2014 with the planting of two oak trees, was selected after a series of public workshops and an online survey in which more than 10,000 alumni, students, fans and friends provided opinions and ideas.

“We are unveiling the results of your ideas today,” said Bill Stone, Auburn Alumni Association president, who helped unveil an artist’s rendering. “I can tell one thing for certain: Live trees will be planted on the corner and the great tradition of rolling the corner will continue.”